[BostonCard]

Thanks for the correction.  Adding atmospheric pressure to the gauge pressure, I get an inflation temperature of 305.9 K, or 91 degrees F.  I doubt that they were inflated at that temperature but I suppose it is possible, especially if the Patriots were looking for a way to comply with the letter of the law but skirt the intent.

I think there is an easy way for the Pats to prove innocence here.  Inflate a dozen balls as per their normal protocol, test them to ensure they are at or above 12.5 psi, then store them at 50 degrees for several hours, and retest.  If they come out at 10.5 psi, then we have an explanation that does not involve post facto manipulation of the balls.  If they don't drop, then I would have a hard time conceiving of any explanation that didn't involve somebody letting air out.

BC

[BostonCard]

Thanks for the correction.  Adding atmospheric pressure to the gauge pressure, I get an inflation temperature of 305.9 K, or 91 degrees F.  I doubt that they were inflated at that temperature but I suppose it is possible, especially if the Patriots were looking for a way to comply with the letter of the law but skirt the intent.

I think there is an easy way for the Pats to prove innocence here.  Inflate a dozen balls as per their normal protocol, test them to ensure they are at or above 12.5 psi, then store them at 50 degrees for several hours, and retest.  If they come out at 10.5 psi, then we have an explanation that does not involve post facto manipulation of the balls.  If they don't drop, then I would have a hard time conceiving of any explanation that didn't involve somebody letting air out.

BC